Dr. Wei Cheng

Biography

Wei Cheng is an Associate Professor of Music and Director of Choral Programs at the University of California, Berkeley. He oversees the UCB Chamber Chorus, University Chorus, Vocal Program, and conducts instruction. Cheng has made outstanding contributions to music education and was named the Virginia Chan Lew Distinguished Professor of Music for the period of 2023-2028. He previously held the Jerry Evelyn Hemmings Chambers Distinguished Professor of Music position from 2020-2023. Originally from Beijing, China, he earned his Master’s and Doctoral degrees in choral conducting from the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati. Cheng has received the Dale Warland Conducting Award from the American Prize and is known as a revered performer, educator, and clinician. He has engaged musicians in both the USA and China, leading choirs on international tours and collaborating with renowned ensembles such as the Ethel String Quartet, Phillippe Entremont, and the Munich Symphony Orchestra. His leadership of the UC Berkeley Chamber Chorus garnered the American Prize in 2022 in the college division. Cheng's primary professional focus lies in China, where he serves as the Principal Guest Conductor of the Beijing Harmonia Choir and conducts the Young People’s Chamber Choir at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing. He has guest conducted prestigious institutions, including the China National Opera House and the Lanzhou Performing Arts Group. His expertise encompasses contemporary choral repertoire, conducting pedagogy, and the promotion of choral music in China. He has also adjudicated numerous contests and presented at conferences on state, national, and international levels, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the choral community.

Research Interests